The Department of Cooperative Governance (DCoG), through its National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), has officially opened applications for the 2026 Bursary Programme. This opportunity is specifically designed for students who are passionate about disaster risk reduction, emergency response, and fire safety. The bursary aims to build critical skills in Disaster Management, Fire Technology, and Fire Engineering, ensuring South Africa has the necessary expertise to address both natural and man-made disasters.
Unlike many bursary schemes, this programme focuses on full-time qualifications at recognised public higher education institutions in South Africa. Importantly, it excludes short-term certificate courses and PhD qualifications, making it ideal for undergraduate, postgraduate diploma, advanced diploma, and master’s level studies.
Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate / Postgraduate Diploma / Advanced Diploma Applicants
To qualify, applicants must submit the following:
- Certified copy of a valid South African Identity Document.
- Most recent academic transcript or statement of results showing at least 60% average.
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate.
- Proof of application, acceptance, or registration into a full-time Disaster Management, Fire Technology, or Fire Engineering programme at a recognised institution.
- Master’s Applicants
Master’s students have slightly stricter requirements:
- Certified copy of a valid South African Identity Document.
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate.
- A brief Curriculum Vitae (not exceeding two pages).
- Most recent academic transcript with at least 65% average.
- Proof of application, acceptance, or registration for a full master’s programme in Disaster Management, Fire Technology, or Fire Engineering.
- A research proposal aligned with one of the NDMC’s 16 priority thematic areas. https://onlinebursary.ndmc.gov.za/docs/ResearchAgenda.pdf
Allowances and Benefits
The DCoG bursary provides comprehensive financial support, ensuring that deserving students can focus entirely on their studies without financial stress. The bursary covers:
- 100% of tuition and registration fees for approved qualifications.
- A research allowance (capped at R11 000) for master’s students to support the development and completion of their research work.
This financial assistance is especially valuable for students from underprivileged backgrounds and aligns with government’s goal of creating skilled professionals in high-demand areas of disaster management and fire safety.
Why You Should Apply
South Africa is increasingly vulnerable to challenges such as climate change, urbanisation, and natural disasters. This bursary does more than fund education; it invests in the future safety and resilience of communities. Students who qualify will not only gain a world-class education but also position themselves for meaningful careers in disaster risk management, emergency response, municipal planning, and fire safety engineering.
By supporting students in these critical fields, the Department of Cooperative Governance is ensuring that future leaders and specialists are equipped to protect communities, manage emergencies, and build safer cities.
How to Apply
Interested students are encouraged to prepare their documentation early. Applicants must ensure that all required documents are certified and submitted within the application window to be considered.
The DCoG bursary is a competitive programme, and only those who meet the requirements will be shortlisted. This is a life-changing opportunity for aspiring professionals who want to make a real difference in South Africa.
Applications should be done online at this link: https://onlinebursary.ndmc.gov.za/
DOWNLOAD THE DEPARTMENT OF COOPERATIVE GOVERNANCE (DCOG) BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 ADVERT HERE
Our Conclusion
The DCoG Bursary Programme 2026 offers more than financial support—it offers a pathway into a career that saves lives and builds resilience. Whether you are starting your undergraduate studies or advancing into a master’s research project, this bursary is an opportunity to grow academically while contributing to national disaster risk reduction efforts.
Enquiries:
- Generic Enquiries Should Be Directed To: Email: bursary@ndmc.gov.za OR Tel: 012 848 4614/ 28/ 54
- ICT Related Enquiries Should Be Directed To: Email: bursary@ndmc.gov.za OR Tel: 012 848 4631/ 76
CLOSING DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
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